₦airaland Forum

Mayor Lucky Igbokwe (Don Lulu), Chairman of Don Media Group and Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement, has congratulated the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, on his emergence as the Leadership Newspapers 2025 Legislator of the Year.

In a statement issued on February 12, 2026, Igbokwe described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of disciplined legislative service, constructive national leadership, and commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in Nigeria.

He noted that Kalu, through effective lawmaking, engagement in constitutional reform processes, and promotion of cross-regional collaboration, continues to play a strategic role in shaping legislative direction at the national level. According to him, sustainable national development depends on leaders who prioritise competence, stability, and the broader national interest.

The media entrepreneur further stated that recognitions of this nature reinforce accountability within public institutions and encourage a governance culture where performance, responsibility, and service delivery are highly valued.

Mayor Igbokwe also prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and clarity of purpose for the Deputy Speaker as he continues to serve the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The congratulatory message was signed by Mayor Lucky Igbokwe in his dual capacity as Chairman of Don Media Group and Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement.

The Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement (CBM), Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, has appointed Mr. Gberemakor Okechukwu as the State Coordinator of the Movement in Abia State.

Okechukwu, a seasoned public service professional with extensive experience in finance, administration, and governance, is expected to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and drive support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the state.

The appointment forms part of ongoing efforts to reposition the City Boy Movement’s structure and expand its operational reach within Abia State. Further details on his inauguration are expected soon.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has declared that there is no legal provision mandating a sitting governor to operate exclusively from the Government House, insisting that the Constitution does not prescribe a specific place of residence or official duty post for a state chief executive.


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Governor Otti made the assertion while responding to questions during a media parley in Umuahia, amid criticisms and threats of legal action by some of his predecessors and their loyalists over his decision to temporarily operate from his private residence in Nvosi.

The governor said he was unfazed by the threats and challenged those behind them to proceed to court without delay, adding that his legal team was fully prepared to defend his position.

“I am waiting to be sued. My lawyers are ready. I have looked at the Constitution, and there is nowhere it says I must live in a particular place,” Otti stated.

Otti explained that his decision was informed by the poor state of facilities at the Government House, which he said had been left in a deplorable condition by previous administrations.

According to him, the Governor’s Lodge and a new office complex within the Government House are currently undergoing reconstruction to restore the facility to a befitting standard.

“The state in which they left the Government House speaks for itself. I don’t owe anybody an explanation,” he added.

The controversy follows recent statements attributed to former Abia State governors, including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Senator Theodore Orji, and Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and their supporters, who reportedly threatened to initiate legal action to compel Otti to relocate fully to the Government House in Umuahia.

The Abia media and creative community has been thrown into mourning following the death of popular broadcast journalist and actor, Macarthy Uzoma, whose passing was discovered days after he died in his residence in Umuahia, Abia State.

Mr. Uzoma, fondly known in media circles as ClergyMan, reportedly passed on quietly in his home at Umuifeze Amizi Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area. His death went unnoticed until several days later, when concerned neighbours and acquaintances raised alarm, leading to the sad discovery.

The late journalist and actor, aged 52, was well known for his contributions to broadcast media and the creative industry in Abia State, where he earned respect for his calm disposition, professionalism, and passion for storytelling and public communication.

In a statement announcing his burial arrangements, the family said they received his passing with “a heart of heaviness but total submission to the will of Almighty God,” describing him as a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose impact will be long remembered.

According to the burial programme, a Christian wake-keep and praise night will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, at Umuifeze Square, Olokoro, starting at 10:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, January 22, 2026, his remains will depart City Gate Mortuary, Old Aba Road, Umuahia, for his village home at Mr. Ochonma’s Compound, Umuifeze Amizi Olokoro, where a requiem mass will be held, followed shortly by interment.

Family members, colleagues, friends, and admirers have continued to pour in tributes, remembering Mr. Uzoma as a dedicated media professional and creative talent whose voice and presence will be deeply missed in Abia’s broadcast and entertainment space.

He is survived by family members and loved ones, who have appealed for prayers and support as preparations are made to lay him to rest in his hometown in Umuahia, Abia State.

All will fondly remember him.

The Chairman of DON Media Group, Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians from all walks of life for the overwhelming support shown to his family during the burial of his late mother, Dame Peace Onyekwulechi Igbokwe.

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In a statement issued after the burial ceremonies, Mayor Igbokwe thanked family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers who travelled from far and near, sent condolence messages, offered prayers, and stood by the family throughout the period of mourning.

He specially appreciated the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for his solidarity and encouragement, as well as the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for personally attending the burial and offering words of comfort.

Mayor Igbokwe also acknowledged the support of the Deputy Governor of Abia State and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, alongside the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Obi Aguocha, and the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Darlington Nwokocha.

He further thanked representatives of the son of the President, Seyi Tinubu, as well as other prominent personalities, including former Abia State House of Assembly Speaker Chinedum Orji, Lagos State Special Adviser on Tourism Idris Aregbe, Director-General of the City Boy Movement Francis Tosin Shoga, and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah.

The DON Media Group chairman also acknowledged the presence of traditional rulers and community leaders, including Royal High Chief Dr. Charles Onwuneme, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ohuhu Clan, as well as friends and associates such as Aham Uko, Mascot Uzor Kalu, and Nollywood actress Doris Ogala.

Mayor Igbokwe described the massive turnout and expressions of love witnessed during the burial as humbling and comforting, noting that the support reaffirmed the family’s belief in unity, friendship, and shared humanity.

He prayed that God would bless and reward all who stood with the family and grant eternal rest to the soul of the late Dame Peace Onyekwulechi Igbokwe.

The people of Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia LGA of Abia State have announced a comprehensive set of security reforms aimed at strengthening public safety, curbing criminal activities, and preserving social order within the community.


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The resolutions were reached through a joint decision of Ebem Ohafia youths, the Central Executive Council of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU), and the Ebem Council of Chiefs and Elders, following growing concerns over security challenges. The measures took immediate effect on Monday, January 13, 2026.

Under the new directives, the sale, use, and trafficking of hard drugs and illicit substances have been completely banned within Ebem Ohafia. Community authorities stressed that anyone found engaging in such activities will face stiff fines and disciplinary sanctions, irrespective of social status.

The community also condemned the rise in cult-related activities, issuing a final ultimatum to individuals involved to renounce such practices or face severe community sanctions and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.

In a bid to prevent Ebem Ohafia from becoming a refuge for criminal elements, individuals who have committed crimes in other communities and relocated to Ebem as hideouts have been ordered to vacate the community immediately. Any indigene found harbouring or providing accommodation for such persons will be held accountable.

Additionally, the use of weapons, brandishing or firing of firearms, and violent confrontations have been outlawed. Offenders will be handed over to security agencies and subjected to heavy community penalties. The community further resolved that Ndi Ikwu will bear responsibility for defaulters within their jurisdiction, including possible suspension from hosting ceremonies and communal activities.

The reforms also extend to commercial activities. Traders along the Ebem Police Station/Court Road and within the Ebem Ohafia Daily Market were warned against obstructing gutters, walkways, and designated free zones. Any goods found in violation will be impounded without notice.

Speaking on the development, the Publicity Secretary of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali, said the measures reflect the community’s collective resolve to protect lives, property, and the long-standing values of Ebem Ohafia. He urged residents and visitors to comply fully, noting that enforcement would be strict and uncompromising.

The Ebem Ohafia Community reaffirmed its commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development, calling on all stakeholders to support the new security framework in the interest of a safer and more orderly society.

A coalition of former Abia State governors, legislators, and political appointees who served between 1999 and 2023 has announced plans to institute legal action against Governor Alex Otti over his continued operation from a private residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, ABN TV reports.


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The decision was reached at the group’s second meeting held at the residence of former Abia State governor, Theodore Orji, where members resolved to compel the governor to relocate official activities to the Government House in Umuahia.

Among those listed as members of the group are former governors Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu, alongside other past political office holders.

In a communique issued after the meeting on Friday, the group stated that the planned lawsuit is aimed at enforcing what it described as the proper use of official government facilities.

“A lawsuit should be instituted compelling Governor Alex Otti to operate from the Government House, Umuahia,” the communique read.

The communique, which was read by a former media aide in the Abia State Government, Victor Ike Oye, expressed strong dismay that Governor Otti is still conducting state business from his personal residence rather than the officially designated Government House.

Beyond the legal threat, the group also declared its readiness to mobilize politically for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu. It further expressed gratitude to the President for nominating one of its members, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, for an ambassadorial appointment.

The development adds a new dimension to the political discourse in Abia State, as the controversy over the governor’s operating base now appears headed for the courts.

Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has asserted that Governor Alex Otti received more financial allocations within four months than he did throughout his eight-year tenure as governor.

Kalu made the remarks on Thursday while addressing journalists during a press conference at his country home in Igbere.

According to the former Senate Chief Whip, the volume of funds currently available to the Abia State Government surpasses what was accessible during his time in office, insisting that this context must be considered when assessing governance performance.

“The money Governor Alex Otti received in four months is what I received in eight years,” Kalu said.

The former governor further claimed that much of what he has observed under the current administration involves the repainting and rehabilitation of infrastructure executed during his own tenure.

“What I see mostly is the repainting and rebuilding of roads constructed during my administration. I have not seen major new roads of the scale we undertook,” he stated.

Kalu maintained that his record in office remains verifiable, stressing that his administration implemented policies that provided free education and healthcare for Abia residents during his time as governor.

Speaking on his performance at the National Assembly, the senator said his legislative achievements were unmatched, particularly in the area of rural development. He cited the construction of new farmland and rural access roads across communities in Abia North as evidence of his impact.

“I am in the Senate, and the roads I am doing are brand new farmland roads. In two years, I have done what many people thought was impossible,” Kalu added.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has declared that he will not defect from the Labour Party, despite the decision of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to leave the party.


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Governor Otti made this known on Tuesday during his monthly media chat held in Umuahia, where he addressed growing speculations about his political future following reports of Obi’s planned exit from the Labour Party.

The Governor disclosed that Peter Obi had personally informed him of his intention to leave the party, adding that he gave him his blessings. However, Otti emphasized that his own political path remains firmly rooted in the Labour Party for now.

According to the Governor, his membership of the Labour Party predates that of Peter Obi, stressing that he did not join the party because of the former Anambra State governor.

“If you remember, I joined the Labour Party before Peter Obi, so I did not join the party with him,” Otti said.

He further explained that while Obi’s decision is respected, he has chosen to remain in the party in order to contribute to efforts aimed at rebuilding and repositioning it.

“He has communicated to me that he is leaving the Labour Party. I gave him my blessings. But I will remain in the Labour Party, and I told him that I would continue the struggle to rescue the Labour Party,” the Governor stated.

Otti noted that the Labour Party provided the platform that brought him to power, making it necessary for him to stay and help strengthen the party’s internal structures and direction.

He added that discussions about alternative political options would only arise after genuine efforts have been made to reposition the party.

“That is the party that brought me to power. If we fight and get to the end, and we are able to reposition the Labour Party, then we can discuss other options. Therefore, for now, I am not defecting to any party,” Otti concluded.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to defect to the All Progressives Congress, assuring him of full backing from APC members in the state.


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Kalu made the call on Monday while addressing party members and supporters during a town hall meeting and food distribution exercise held at his country home in Bende, Abia State.

According to the Deputy Speaker, Governor Otti’s continued support for President Bola Tinubu would be more meaningful if he formally aligns with the ruling party.

“I want to use this opportunity again to invite Governor Alex Otti to join our party. If he comes to our party, we will support him. But if they are in another party and they are supporting the President, fa-fa-fa—fowl,” Kalu said.

He stressed that the President would not abandon the APC to work with non-members, insisting that genuine support for the Tinubu-led administration must come from within the party.

The Deputy Speaker also clarified that he has not declared interest in the 2027 Abia governorship election, stating that he is still consulting widely and awaiting direction from the party’s national leadership.

Kalu further alleged that he has been subjected to daily attacks by hired social media agents in the state, who he said deliberately misinterpret his empowerment programmes as a premature governorship ambition.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has dismissed social media attacks against him, insisting that elections are decided at polling units, not online platforms.


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Kalu made the remark while addressing members of the All Progressives Congress and his supporters during the Renewed Hope town hall meeting held in Bende LGA, Abia State.

Responding to what he described as persistent insults and coordinated attacks by hired social media agents, the Deputy Speaker warned critics against mistaking online noise for political strength.

“You can insult me all you want on social media, but on election day, I will remind you that there are no polling units on social media,” Kalu declared.

He[b] explained that his ongoing empowerment programmes and grassroots engagements across Abia State are being deliberately misinterpreted by opponents as signs of a 2027 governorship ambition, stressing that he has not declared for the race.
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Kalu maintained that genuine political victory is achieved through direct engagement with the people, adding that the expanding APC grassroots structures across the state are focused on mobilising voters and securing future electoral success, particularly for President Bola Tinubu.

The Deputy Speaker reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the party at the grassroots and urged supporters to remain focused, disciplined, and connected to the electorate rather than being distracted by online provocations.

Abians residing in Oyo State have expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Abia State, Alex Chioma Otti, for approving free transportation that enabled many families to return home for the 2025 Christmas celebrations.

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Speaking on behalf of Abians in Ibadan, the President of the Ohafia Improvement Union (OIU), Ibadan Branch, Mazi Paul Kalu, said the governor’s intervention brought renewed hope and joy to families who had earlier resigned themselves to missing the festive season due to rising transportation costs and economic hardship.

According to Mazi Kalu, the gesture implemented on December 23, 2025, saw the provision of four large buses to convey Abians free of charge from Ibadan to Aba and Umuahia in Abia State. He described the initiative as timely, compassionate, and reflective of people-focused leadership.

“On behalf of all Abians in Ibadan, led by Mazi Jude Ekwerendu and his executive members, I want to sincerely thank our amiable Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti. We honestly do not know how to thank him. Many families had lost hope of coming home for Christmas this year, but he made it possible,” Mazi Kalu stated.

He noted that beyond easing transportation challenges, the gesture restored the spirit of togetherness and family bonding that defines the Christmas season, especially for those living far from home.

Mazi Kalu further said that Abians in the diaspora have continued to hear positive reports about the ongoing transformation in Abia State under Governor Otti’s administration, adding that the free transport initiative further reinforced their confidence in the government.

“We have been hearing a lot about the transformation going on in our dear state. After many years of crying, Abians are smiling again. We are solidly behind the governor,” he added.

Abians in Oyo prayed for God’s blessings upon the governor and reaffirmed their support for his administration, describing the Christmas transport initiative as a clear demonstration of responsive governance and genuine concern for the welfare of Abians, both at home and in the diaspora.

The Abia State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against child trafficking with the arrest of multiple suspects and the rescue of several stolen children and infants across Abia, Lagos, Anambra, Ebonyi and neighbouring states.

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In one case, operatives arrested Mrs. Chinasa Ukachukwu and Adaoma Sunday after Chinasa reportedly left home with four children and returned days later with only one. Acting on intelligence, detectives tracked and rescued the three missing children from different locations and reunited them with their families.

In another coordinated operation, police dismantled a large trafficking ring operating within Aba and Obingwa areas, arresting ten suspects and rescuing eight infants and ten children who were allegedly stolen under various guises, including fake marriages and caregiving arrangements. All rescued children have since been reunited with their families, while suspects were charged to court.

The Command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking and urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has explained the reasons behind his recent visit to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stating that the move was driven by a commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsibility as a leader.


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Speaking on Friday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti revealed that discussions surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s situation began over two years ago at the highest levels.

“Exactly 24 months ago, I opened up discussions at the highest level on Nnamdi Kanu,” the Governor disclosed.

He explained that visiting Kanu was the right thing to do, noting that the detained IPOB leader is an indigene of Abia State, specifically Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Governor Otti emphasized that ignoring a problem does not solve it, maintaining that dialogue remains a vital tool in conflict resolution.

“There are always ways to solve a problem. I don’t believe the way to solve a problem is to ignore it,” he said.

While reaffirming respect for the judiciary, the Governor noted that beyond the legal process, there exists an administrative window for intervention, dialogue, and peace-building.

He clarified that he does not support the disintegration of Nigeria and has consistently condemned violent approaches to resolving grievances, including Operation Python Dance, which he had publicly criticized in the past.

“It would be insensitive of me to sit here and say that one of our own should die when there is an opportunity to discuss, negotiate, and sue for peace,” Governor Otti stated.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his resolve to retire completely from active politics after completing his tenure as Governor, dismissing speculations about any future political ambition.

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Governor Otti made this clear on Friday, December 19, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Government House, Umuahia, while responding to a viral video alleging that his recent political engagements signaled a plan to contest for higher offices.

The Governor categorically stated that he has no ambition to run for President, Vice President, or Senator, stressing that his mission in public office is limited to his current mandate.

“By the time I’m done with governorship, I will retire. I don’t have presidential ambition, vice-presidential ambition, or senatorial ambition,” Otti declared.

He explained that leadership comes with a responsibility to know when to exit, adding that politics should not be a lifelong pursuit.

“When you have done what you were asked to do, you clear, give way to younger people. We are not cut out for recycling offices,” he said.

The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, on Friday confirmed the killing of an officer of the Nigerian Army identified as Lance Corporal David on November 21, 2025.

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ABN TV had exclusively reported the killing, suspected to be cult-related, last month.

Confirming the incident while briefing journalists in Umuahia, CP Danladi said efforts are ongoing to arrest and prosecute the suspects, assuring Abians of the command's readiness to ensure the security of lives and property.

Lance Corporal David was trailed to his family home along Ngwa Road, Aba, where he was killed by the assailants in the presence of his family members.

The report has since been confirmed by eyewitnesses, and ABN TV has also obtained pictorial and video evidence of the killing.

The deceased, who hails from Ebonyi, was raised in Abia and had recently returned from a medical surgery before he was brutally murdered.

He was granted a pass to undergo the medical procedure before resuming work.